Editorial Note
In telegram 4192 from Athens, May 31, Minister Yost reported that at 5 a. m. that morning several companies of the Greek Army had surrounded the Parliament building and the Athens radio station. Venizelos had called Papagos who arrived on the scene at 6 a. m. and ordered the troops returned to their barracks which they did. Yost further reported that an investigation was currently underway to determine who was responsible for this action and whether it was merely an isolated incident. (781.00/5–3151)
Yost reported in telegram 4215 from Athens, May 31, that to all outward appearances the situation was calm with no reports of any public or army disturbances in any part of the country. He added that the morning’s incident appeared to be an isolated affair in reaction to the recent resignation of Papagos as Commander in Chief of the armed forces. (781.00/5–3151) King Paul described to Peurifoy the events and reasons leading to Papagos’ resignation in an interview on June 4, the substance of which was transmitted by Peurifoy to the Secretary in telegram 4272, from Athens, June 4, not printed. (781.00/6–451)